How to Finance Your ADU in Atlanta

Compare rates, find local lenders, and discover local grants to fund your backyard cottage or garage conversion in 2026.

Financing Options Comparison

Loan Type	Rate	Max Amount	Pros	Cons
HELOC	7.5% - 9.5%	Up to 85% LTV	Flexible draws Interest only period	Variable rates Requires current equity
Cash-Out Refi	6.5% - 7.5%	Up to 80% LTV	Fixed rate Single mortgage	Resets 30yr clock High closing costs
Construction Loan	7.0% - 9.0%	Based on future value	Great for low equity Large loan amounts	Complex draws Higher rates initially
Home Equity Investment	No Monthly Pmt	Up to $300k	No monthly payments Easy qualification	Give up future appreciation Expensive long-term

Local Grants & Incentives in Atlanta

Invest Atlanta Gap Financing

Gap financing for affordable ADU construction. Available to qualifying homeowners in target neighborhoods.

Value: $50,000–$100,000 per unit

Backyard ATL / Reinvestment Fund

Demonstration program providing technical assistance and financing for ADU construction.

Value: Technical Assistance + Financing

Top ADU Lenders Operating in Atlanta

Georgia's Own Credit Union

Local HELOCs for Atlanta Homeowners

Rates: From 7.0%
Max Loan: Subject to LTV

Ameris Bank

Construction-to-Permanent Loans

Rates: From 7.5%
Max Loan: $500,000

Century Bank of Georgia

Home Equity & ADU Renovation Loans

Rates: From 7.25%
Max Loan: $400,000

RenoFi

Renovation Loans Based on After-Renovation Value

Rates: From 7.25%
Max Loan: $500,000

Figure

Fast Online HELOC (5-Day Funding)

Rates: From 7.75%
Max Loan: $400,000

LightStream

Unsecured Home Improvement Loans

Rates: From 7.49%
Max Loan: $100,000

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